ALAN ARCHIBALD will expect the unexpected from an inconsistent Celtic at Parkhead tomorrow night.

The Jags make the trip across Glasgow aiming to cause a League Cup shock and book their place in the last four of the competition this term.

Under new boss Ronny Deila, the Hoops have failed to hit their stride on a regular basis this season as they have struggled at home and abroad so far.

Wins over Ross County, FC Astra and Kilmarnock in the last few days have raised the spirits around Parkhead once again.

But Archibald isn't sure what kind of Celtic side will turn up against the Jags.

He said: "They are in transition. The new manager has come in and you don't know what team he is going to play.

"He has made three or four changes in recent games and he has a massive squad to do that.

"You don't really know what you are going to get - they were 4-4-2 at the weekend and 4-3-3 the previous game.

"I don't think the manager knows his best team yet and hopefully we can capitalise on it.

"I was at the game against Kilmarnock and up until the sending-off, Killie played really well.

"The first 20 minutes against Celtic is vital and if you can keep a clean sheet and not give anything away, you can see the difference.

"If you lose an early goal it gives you a bigger mountain to climb."

Thistle lost 1-0 on their only Parkhead visit last season but will head into the derby clash in high spirits tomorrow.

Archibald has seen his side suffer their own inconsistent run this season as they have struggled to put wins together.

But the Firhill boss is confident they have what it takes to cause a cup shock.

Archibald said: "We have got to go there with hope.

"We know the crowd isn't what it used to be but it is still an intimidating place to go.

"The pitch always seems massive. Our pitch is actually bigger than theirs but it doesn't feel like that. I think we can use it to our advantage.

"We did it last season in spells and as long as the lads are brave, there is a real opportunity - we think we can hurt them.

"I have watched Hamilton's win at Parkhead and we will see what we can learn from that. I think you can take hope from that."